Medical Marijuana and Hospice: What You Need to Know

When patients begin hospice care, families often wonder what kinds of therapies are appropriate or helpful. At Sonder Hospice, we believe in honoring each person’s journey with comfort, dignity, and the highest possible quality of life. That’s why we offer range of motion exercises and occupational therapy support as part of our compassionate, individualized care plans.

What Is Range of Motion in Hospice Care?

Range of motion (ROM) refers to the normal movement of joints and muscles. In hospice settings, these movements are not used for rehabilitation or aggressive therapy, but rather to maintain comfort, reduce pain, and prevent complications like contractures, pressure injuries, or stiffness.

ROM exercises can be:

Passive – performed by a caregiver or therapist without patient assistance
Active – performed by the patient with minimal assistance
Active-assisted – a combination of the two

Why It Matters in End-of-Life Care

Even when patients are not mobile, gentle ROM therapy has significant benefits:

Reduces pain and stiffness
Prevents muscle atrophy and joint contractures
Improves circulation
Supports comfort during transfers or repositioning
Promotes relaxation and overall well-being

At Sonder, we approach ROM exercises not just as a clinical task, but as a human connection — a way to preserve dignity, offer touch, and provide care in its most meaningful form.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Hospice

Occupational therapists at Sonder Hospice work closely with the care team to ensure that patients are able to engage in the activities that matter most — whether that’s safely using the bathroom, feeding themselves, or simply sitting up to enjoy the sunlight.

Our occupational therapy services may include:

Adapting the environment for safety and ease
Providing assistive devices
Teaching family members safe transfer techniques
Designing positioning strategies for maximum comfort
Guiding caregivers on how to perform ROM exercises properly

Occupational therapy in hospice isn’t about regaining lost skills — it’s about preserving comfort, autonomy, and quality of life with gentle, thoughtful support.

How Sonder Hospice Makes It Personal

At Sonder, we believe that small, consistent movements — guided by kindness — can make a big difference. Our team collaborates with patients, families, and caregivers to assess individual needs and tailor care plans accordingly.

We train family caregivers and aides on safe and compassionate ROM techniques so that they can confidently support their loved one’s comfort and mobility at home. These aren’t just clinical skills — they are acts of love and service.

Empowering Families, Preserving Dignity

Range of motion support and occupational therapy at Sonder Hospice are part of our broader philosophy: to treat the whole person with skill, empathy, and respect. In life’s final chapter, movement still matters — and at Sonder, we help make every motion one of care.

Want to learn more about hospice therapies at home?
Contact Sonder Hospice today for a personalized conversation about how we support comfort, movement, and meaning for patients and families in the Austin area. EMAIL: contact@sonderhospice. or call (512) 680-5689.